THE Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission’s (IPCMC) scope of power should be reviewed to prevent fraud and abuses.

Pahang Criminal Investigation Department chief Othman Nayan said IPCMC would not only handle complaints and conduct investigations, but also prosecute and mete out punishments.

This is different from the system in many democratic countries, where separation of power is practised, he said.

“Looking at the clauses stated for IPCMC, starting from receiving a complaint on an offence to having the power to investigate, conduct disciplinary proceedings, prosecute and punish… it is a complete cycle. The entire thing would be handled by just one body,” he told a public hearing session of the Special Select Committee for Consideration of the IPCMC Bill at Wisma Darul Iman in Kuala Terengganu today.

More than 500 police personnel from Terengganu, Kelantan and Pahang attended the hearing.

Othman said the separation of power is a must to prevent fraud, abuses and unjust actions against cops.

“Review (the clauses) to prevent power abuse… IPCMC can receive complaints, process the available information and conduct investigations, but it should not prosecute and determine punishments.

“The last two responsibilities should be given to other bodies. This will guarantee justice for all.”

IPCMC chairman Ramkarpal Singh told a press conference that today’s public hearing session is the last before recommendations are compiled for submission to the Dewan Rakyat by November 25.

He said the earlier sessions were held in Sarawak, Penang, Johor and Sabah.

“The aim of the bill is not to mar the image of police, but to boost it. I am confident the proposed amendments will benefit police in the future.” – November 16, 2019.